PhD-Stelle im Bereich Dünnschicht-Energiematerialien (m/w/d)

Job Description

Thin film materials have a variety of applications in the energy domain. These materials are also fascinating, as thin film effects like nanoconfinement, clamping, and high surface-to-volume ratio's can drastically alter the thermodynamics of these materials. In this PhD project, energy materials will be synthesized with thin film deposition techniques such as magnetron sputtering. They will be studied, both from an application point of view (efficiency/performance of the device they are used for) and from a fundamental point of view.

This project will be a true team effort, involving Research technicians, Scientific staff, both within and outside of TU Delft. There will be a predominant experimental focus, and advanced material characterisation methods including neutron and X-ray reflectometry, X-ray spectroscopy and diffraction will be a major part of it.

The responsible supervisor of the project will be Lars Bannenberg.

Tasks

• Synthesize thin film energy materials using e.g. physical vapor deposition (magnetron sputtering).
• Perform advanced material characterization with techniques such as Neutron and X-ray reflectometry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction.
• Characterization of functional performance of the thin film materials.
• Write academic papers and deliver presentations and updates in which you communicate your experimental.
• Co-supervise bachelor and master student thesis projects.
• Contribute to the teaching activities of the group within the bachelor/master programs of the Faculty of Applied Sciences. This could be helping/coordinating the exercise lectures, practical assignments etc. being maximum 10% of your time.

The Storage of Electrochemical Energy group of the Radiation Science and Technology department focuses on fundamental processes in electroceramics and next-generation batteries using experimental probes as neutron and X-ray scattering, as well as solid state NMR and computational approaches including density functional theory calculations. The direct access to these facilities and collaborative atmosphere represents a stimulating environment for research and development.

Job Requirements

• You would be our ideal candidate if you are/have:
• Master in chemical engineering, chemistry, physics, material science or a related subject.
• Experience with thin film deposition techniques including magnetron sputtering.
• Experience with neutron and X-ray reflectometry.
• Programming experience (preferably Python).
• Excellent command of the English language in both speaking and writing. Speaking Dutch is an advantage (some Teaching assistant activities require Dutch Speaking candidates).
• Team working mentality as well as capable to efficiently work individually and good communication skills.
• Demonstrated excellent experimental and analytical skills.

Conditions of Employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1.5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2.5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3059 - €3881 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.

Additional Information

If you would like more information about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact Lars Bannenberg (responsible supervisor), via [email protected]

Application Procedure

Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 30 June 2026 via the application button and upload the following documents:

• CV
• Cover letter
• Grade list for your MSc education

You can address your application to Lars Bannenberg (responsible supervisor).

Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

Please note:

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.

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